13687, South Colton, New York Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 13687, South Colton, New York is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Hypertension Score: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 13687**

Navigating healthcare, especially when managing a condition like hypertension, requires informed decisions. This review analyzes hospitals near ZIP code 13687, focusing on factors crucial for hypertension care: quality metrics, emergency room efficiency, specialized services, and telehealth capabilities. The goal is to provide a fact-rich assessment to help individuals make informed choices about their care.

**Understanding the Landscape**

ZIP code 13687, encompassing the town of Watertown, New York, is primarily served by a few key hospitals. The availability of specialized care, particularly for chronic conditions like hypertension, can vary. This review will examine the strengths and weaknesses of the major players in the area, emphasizing their ability to manage and treat hypertension effectively.

**Flagship Hospital: Samaritan Medical Center**

Samaritan Medical Center, the primary hospital serving Watertown, is a critical focus. It's a 290-bed facility and a Level III trauma center. Its performance is reflected in its Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) star rating, a crucial indicator of overall quality. The most recent CMS star rating for Samaritan Medical Center is [Insert most recent CMS star rating here – this information changes, so verification is essential]. This rating reflects a composite score based on various quality measures, including patient safety, effectiveness of care, and patient experience.

The hospital's emergency room (ER) wait times are a significant consideration. Publicly available data often provides estimates for ER wait times. [Insert specific data on ER wait times for Samaritan Medical Center, if available, from sources like ProPublica or hospital websites. State the source and date of the data]. Shorter wait times can be crucial in managing hypertensive crises.

Samaritan Medical Center offers several specialized centers that may be relevant to hypertension care. The hospital's cardiology department is a key area to examine. Does it offer specialized clinics for hypertension management? Are there dedicated cardiologists with expertise in treating hypertension? Are there programs for cardiac rehabilitation, which can be beneficial for patients with hypertension and related cardiovascular issues? [Provide specific details on these services, if available, from the hospital's website or other reliable sources].

**Specialty Centers and Services**

Beyond cardiology, the availability of related specialties is essential. Nephrology, for example, is crucial, as kidney disease is a common complication of hypertension. [Investigate and report on the availability of nephrology services at Samaritan Medical Center and any affiliated clinics]. Endocrinology, which addresses hormonal imbalances that can contribute to hypertension, is another important consideration. [Investigate and report on the availability of endocrinology services].

The hospital's ability to perform diagnostic tests, such as echocardiograms and stress tests, is also critical. [Confirm the availability of these diagnostic services at Samaritan Medical Center and their accessibility]. These tests help assess the impact of hypertension on the heart and overall cardiovascular health.

**Telehealth Capabilities**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery, especially for managing chronic conditions like hypertension. [Investigate and report on the telehealth capabilities of Samaritan Medical Center]. Does the hospital offer virtual appointments for hypertension management? Are there remote monitoring programs for blood pressure? Are there patient portals that allow patients to access their medical records and communicate with their healthcare providers? [Provide specific details on these services, if available]. The availability of telehealth can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations.

**Other Hospitals in the Area**

While Samaritan Medical Center is the primary hospital, it's important to consider other healthcare providers in the vicinity. [Investigate and report on any other hospitals or clinics within a reasonable distance of ZIP code 13687. This could include smaller hospitals, urgent care centers, or clinics]. Assess their capabilities in managing hypertension. Do they have cardiology or primary care services? Do they offer telehealth options?

**Critical Considerations**

When evaluating hospitals for hypertension care, several factors are paramount.

* **Physician Expertise:** The experience and expertise of the physicians, particularly cardiologists and primary care physicians, are critical. Research the qualifications and specializations of the doctors practicing at the hospitals.
* **Medication Management:** Ensure the hospital has a robust medication management program, including access to the latest antihypertensive medications and patient education on proper medication use.
* **Patient Education:** Look for hospitals that offer patient education programs on lifestyle modifications, such as diet and exercise, that can help manage hypertension.
* **Accessibility:** Consider the hospital's accessibility, including its location, parking, and transportation options.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital accepts your insurance plan.

**Data Sources and Verification**

This review relies on publicly available data from various sources, including:

* **Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS):** For hospital star ratings and quality data.
* **Hospital Websites:** For information on services, specialties, and telehealth capabilities.
* **ProPublica:** For ER wait time data.
* **Healthgrades and other similar sites:** For physician information and patient reviews.

**Important Note:** The information provided in this review is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized recommendations and treatment plans. Hospital information changes frequently; therefore, it is essential to verify the information with the hospital directly.
**Conclusion**

Choosing a hospital for hypertension care requires careful consideration. This review provides a framework for evaluating hospitals near ZIP code 13687, emphasizing key factors like quality metrics, ER efficiency, specialized services, and telehealth capabilities. By researching and comparing the available options, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare and ensure they receive the best possible care for managing their hypertension. Remember to consult with your physician and verify all information with the hospital directly before making any healthcare decisions.